Moving to Mars: Building a Colony on the Red Planet
on Goodreads (2)
What’s inside...
Moving to Mars: Building a Colony on the Red Planet is an illustrated non-fiction guide that walks children through the real science and technology behind living on Mars. Astrophysicist Sheddad Kaid-Salah Ferron, illustrator Eduard Altarriba, engineer Miquel Sureda Anfrés, and astronomer Guillem Anglada-Escudé explain the Red Planet’s extreme environment, the engineering hurdles of interplanetary travel, and the step-by-step planning needed to create a sustainable human settlement. Clear diagrams, friendly language, and vivid art turn complex STEM concepts—rocket launches, life-support systems, habitat design, and terraforming—into an exciting, approachable adventure for readers aged 8-12.
Age
8-12
Length
56 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Which Mars challenge seems hardest and why?
How could technologies for Mars help people on Earth today?
Would you volunteer to be a Martian settler?
What everyday items would be impossible to bring to Mars?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a ‘design your own habitat’ drawing activity after reading.
Compare Mars facts to local weather or geography to build context.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity drives progress
Explanation: Explorers ask questions about Mars and seek answers through science.
Real-World Application: Kids can research local science topics and present findings.
Example Lesson: Teamwork is essential
Explanation: Engineers, doctors, and farmers must collaborate for survival.
Real-World Application: Practice group projects at school or home chores together.
Example Lesson: Use resources wisely
Explanation: Limited water and air on Mars require recycling systems.
Real-World Application: Conserve water and energy in daily routines.
Example Lesson: Perseverance overcomes obstacles
Explanation: Repeated testing leads to safe landings.
Real-World Application: Encourage persistence when homework feels challenging.